In 1973, when Connie finished school at Denver University, she decided to follow her love for horses. Connie began working for the Preston-Smith Family in Denver, and in 1976 opened her own farm. Connie trained horses such as Volunteer, Hard Rain, and Moonraker that went on to International and National fame. In 1986, Connie left Denver, and returned back to her roots in the Midwest. Her contributions to the horse industry have been plentiful. Connie continued to train riders and horses of all levels. With the name of Matchmaker Ltd., Connie is well known for matching the right horse and rider combinations, whether they are children on ponies, equitation horses, or adults on hunters and jumpers. Connie's other passion is finding young prospects, making them up, and selling them. Evening After, As You Wish, Rodeo Drive, Kvell, Got the Feeling, Kindred Spirit, Tangiers, Undercover, Rocketman, Adlib, Superman, Paramount, Rondiamo, Optimized, Casino 71, and Swoon have been a few of Connie's successful finds. *see Sales Graduates for more

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Many of Connie's junior riders have been with her since they were on ponies, competing successfully in the USEF Medal Finals and ASPCA Maclay Finals as well as having outstanding careers in the hunter, jumper, and derby rings as juniors and amateurs. Connie's enthusiasm for teaching proper riding and horsemanship excites and motivates her riders. They love her ability to make each lesson a fun challenge, while remaining patient as they learn and instilling confidence in both horse and rider.

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Connie constantly looks to continue her education within the industry. She has hosted clinics and/or attended them with great horsemen such as Gordon Wright, George Morris, Bernie Traurig, Joe Fargis, Anne Kursinski, Scott Hofstetter, Louise Serio, Karen Healey, Michael Matz, John Roper, Michael Henaghan and Julie Winkel. Connie is a "R" USEF hunter / equitation judge and member of the USET and USHJA. 
 

One of Connie's strongest talents is caring for show horses. She has an uncanny way of taking an unhappy, thin, and poorly muscled horse and turning it into a beautiful, happy, successful athlete. Connie is passionate about teaching proper horse care and prioritizing the wellbeing of these incredible horses.

 

Connie is available for freelance lessons, clinics and consulting. She is excited to share her years of experience and wisdom to mentor and support the next generation of horsemen and women!